Management of Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc, Numan Operations, has issued a stern warning to its staff over the chewing of sugarcane within company premises, describing the act as gross misconduct.
In an internal circular signed by the Head of Human Resources, Ikechukwu Okorie, dated April 7, 2026, and addressed to all staff, the company cautioned that the practice undermines operational standards and could attract disciplinary measures.
The memo, titled “Final Warning on Chewing of Company Sugar Cane,” stated:
“This is to WARN all staff & workers who engage in chewing Company’s Sugar Cane in the Company/Factory Premises that this act is a gross misconduct and is tantamount to Summary Disciplinary actions.”
The company further emphasised that the sugarcane remains a valuable asset and should not be misused by employees. According to the circular:
“The Cane is Company’s property with great value/cost attached to it.”
It also raised concerns about environmental hygiene within the facility, noting that indiscriminate disposal of chewed remnants affects workplace cleanliness.
“Chewing cane and dropping the chaffs indiscriminately is degrading the company environment and it is messing up our housekeeping efforts.”
The management stressed that, as a food processing facility, maintaining strict hygiene standards is non-negotiable.
“DSR-Numan is a food industry that needs excellent housekeeping. So and littering of chewed cane chaffs is NOT allowed.”
Security personnel have reportedly been directed to enforce compliance, with offenders facing possible arrest and disciplinary action.
“The Security apparatus is on red alert and has been mandated to arrest any body caught chewing company sugar cane and the perpetrators will be subjected to disciplinary action and prosecuted accordingly to recover the loss of this very important company asset.”
The notice concluded with a final caution to employees:
“BE WARNED FOR THE LAST TIME!!!”
While the authenticity of the memo has not been independently verified, it has been circulated.